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Man arrested for throwing pipe bomb at Satanic Temple in Massachusetts

An Oklahoma man was arrested for throwing a pipe bomb at the Massachusetts headquarters of The Satanic Temple. The group advocates for secularism and individual liberties, denying any actual worship of Satan. Sean Patrick Palmer, 49, has been charged with using an explosive to damage a building following the attack on the headquarters, which is also used as an art gallery. Read more

Quick Facts

• Sean Patrick Palmer, 49, of Perkins, Oklahoma, has been charged with using an explosive to damage a building following an attack on the headquarters of The Satanic Temple in Massachusetts.
• The bomb partially detonated, causing minor fire damage, and authorities were able to extract a DNA sample from a single hair on the bomb.
• Surveillance footage showed a black Volvo registered to Palmer driving erratically in the area before and after the incident, and he had recently bought PVC pipe from a home improvement store in Oklahoma.

Authorities accused Sean Patrick Palmer of throwing a pipe bomb at the Massachusetts headquarters of The Satanic Temple. The group, based in Salem, campaigns for secularism and individual liberties, clarifying that its members do not worship Satan. Palmer, from Perkins, Oklahoma, has been charged with using an explosive to damage a building following the attack on the headquarters, also an art gallery.

Surveillance cameras captured a man, later identified as Palmer, igniting an improvised explosive device and throwing it at the main entrance of the building before fleeing. The bomb caused minor fire damage. A DNA sample was extracted from a single hair on the bomb, leading to Palmer’s arrest. Additionally, a six-page note addressed to “Dear Satanist” was found near the attack, urging repentance and linked to Palmer’s social media comments.

Surveillance footage also showed a black Volvo registered to Palmer driving erratically in the area before and after the incident. Authorities discovered that Palmer had recently purchased PVC pipe from a home improvement store in Oklahoma. The Satanic Temple, known for its disbelief in the existence of Satan or the supernatural, could not be reached for comment.

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Tragic Incident: 1-Year-Old Boy Dies After Falling from Hotel Window

A 1-year-old boy from Minnesota tragically passed away after falling from a third-floor hotel room window in South Dakota. Madden Hein succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on Monday, two days after the incident occurred at the Club House Hotel & Suites in Sioux Falls. The family announced the heartbreaking news on Tuesday, expressing their deep sorrow and difficulty in processing the loss. Read more about the incident here.

Quick Facts

• Madden Hein, a 1-year-old boy, died after falling from a third-floor hotel room window in South Dakota.
• His parents, Kathryn and Alex Hein, shared the tragic news and mentioned that Madden’s organs will be donated to help others.
• Police are investigating the incident, but initial reports indicate it was a tragic accident.

Alex Hein, Madden’s dad, is a middle school social studies teacher and a high school basketball coach, while mom Kathryn Hein is a kindergarten teacher and volleyball coach. The couple, who also have a 3-year-old daughter and are expecting another child, expressed their gratitude for the support received during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist the family, raising over $69,000 as of Thursday.

As the community mourns the loss of Madden, the family’s decision to donate his organs has been recognized as a selfless act that will benefit many others. The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of support, with hundreds of people gathering outside the hospital to show their solidarity with the Heins. While the investigation into the circumstances of Madden’s fall continues, the family remains focused on honoring his memory and finding strength in the midst of this devastating loss.

Amid the heartbreaking news, the Heins’ commitment to organ donation has highlighted the potential for hope and positivity to emerge from the darkest of situations. The impact of Madden’s passing has reverberated through the community, drawing attention to the importance of coming together in times of grief and adversity. As they navigate this profound loss, the Heins have been touched by the overwhelming support and generosity shown by those around them, demonstrating the power of compassion and unity in the face of tragedy.

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Tesla executive Baglino leaves as Musk loses another top deputy

Tesla Executive Departures Signal Ongoing Turmoil at the Company

**Tesla** Inc. has seen the departure of two senior executives, including Senior Vice President Drew Baglino, amid the company’s recent job cuts. Baglino, a key engineering and technology development leader, has been with the company for 18 years and played a prominent role in various public events alongside CEO Elon Musk.

Quick Facts

• Senior Vice President Drew Baglino and Tesla’s vice president of public policy and business development, Rohan Patel, have left the company amidst a round of job cuts.
• Tesla’s shares dropped more than 3% following the news of the executive departures.
• CEO Elon Musk announced plans to cut headcount by more than 10% globally, coinciding with the departure of top executives.

Baglino’s departure, alongside the recent exit of Rohan Patel, comes at a time when Tesla is facing challenges in the electric-vehicle market. Musk’s decision to downsize the workforce and the subsequent departure of key executives have raised concerns among investors about the company’s stability and succession planning.

Another significant departure earlier in the year was that of Zachary Kirkhorn, who stepped down as CFO after 13 years with the company. Musk, who leads multiple companies, is also facing scrutiny over his commitment to Tesla, the world’s most valuable automaker.

Walter Isaacson, Musk’s biographer, described Baglino as a personable engineer with a significant role in Tesla’s battery-cell development. Baglino’s departure, coupled with Musk’s ambitious plans and the company’s stock performance, has led to increased investor apprehension about the future of the company.

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Residents Swarm Council Meeting After Plan for LGBTQ+ Festival Draws Scowls

Angry residents gathered at a city council meeting in Broadview Heights, Ohio, to protest plans for a Pride festival. The event, scheduled to be held at the Broadview Heights City Hall campus, sparked anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment among the attendees.

Quick Facts:
– Around 100 people attended the council meeting to voice their opposition to the Brecksville-Broadview Heights (BBH) Pride Fest event in June.
– Broadview Heights Mayor Sam Alai approved the festival despite the city council playing no role in the decision.
– Residents expressed objections based on religious beliefs and concerns about the festival’s impact on the community.

Residents expressed strong opposition to the Pride festival during the council meeting. Many attendees protested the event, citing religious beliefs and concerns about its impact on the community. Some residents accused the city of undermining the council and attempting to influence children’s gender identities. Despite some support for the festival, the majority of comments at the meeting were negative.

The anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment displayed at the meeting reflects a broader political culture war, with debates over transgender rights and health care access intensifying across the country. The BBH Pride Organization expressed surprise at the level of opposition and voiced concerns about the safety of its members following the meeting.

The contentious issue has brought to light the deep divide within the community, highlighting the ongoing struggle to find common ground on LGBTQ+ rights and representation.
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Jimmy Kimmel had a tumultuous morning after Donald Trump confused him with Al Pacino. Trump’s social media post accused Kimmel of a poor performance at the Academy Awards and mixed him up with the legendary actor.

Quick Facts

• Donald Trump confused Jimmy Kimmel with Al Pacino in a social media post.
• Trump accused Kimmel of a poor performance at the Academy Awards.
• Kimmel fact-checked Trump’s post and responded with humor.

Jimmy Kimmel found himself in the spotlight after Donald Trump’s social media post mistakenly identified him as Al Pacino. Trump accused Kimmel of a poor performance at the Academy Awards and mixed him up with the legendary actor. Kimmel fact-checked Trump’s post and responded with humor, highlighting the confusion and adding a touch of sarcasm to the situation.

Reacting to Trump’s accusations, Kimmel addressed the inaccuracies in the post and humorously pointed out the confusion between him and Al Pacino. He also highlighted the irony of being labeled the “WORST” Oscar host ever, considering he was asked to host the show again the following year. Additionally, Late Show host Stephen Colbert came to Kimmel’s defense, emphasizing the absurdity of Trump’s remarks.

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11,000 evacuated in northern Indonesia as Ruang volcano erupts

11,000 evacuated in northern Indonesia as Ruang volcano erupts

11,000 people have been evacuated from around the Ruang volcano in northern Indonesia amid fears of a possible collapse and tsunami after multiple eruptions. Mount Ruang, located in North Sulawesi Province, first erupted on Tuesday, followed by four more eruptions on Wednesday.

Quick Facts

• Mount Ruang in Indonesia erupted multiple times, leading to the evacuation of 11,000 people.
• The alert level for the 725-metre high mountain was raised to four, the highest on the scale.
• Officials widened the exclusion zone around the crater to six kilometres and expressed concerns about the potential collapse causing a tsunami.

Indonesia’s volcanology agency raised the alert level for Mount Ruang to four after the series of eruptions and widened the exclusion zone around the crater. More than 800 people were initially evacuated to nearby Tagulandang Island, but later everyone on Tagulandang was also required to be evacuated. There are concerns about the potential collapse of the volcano into the sea, which could trigger a tsunami, as observed during a previous eruption in 1871.

Video footage showed red lava streaming down the mountain and ash clouds above the crater. The head of Indonesia’s geological agency reported that the initial eruption sent an ash column two kilometres into the sky, and a subsequent eruption increased it to 2.5 kilometres. The recent volcanic activity at Ruang has been linked to two earthquakes in the region.

Indonesia, part of the ‘Ring of Fire’ with 120 active volcanoes, has a history of volcanic disasters. The 2018 eruption of Anak Krakatoa volcano led to a deadly tsunami along the coasts of Sumatra and Java after parts of the mountain collapsed into the ocean.

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Kremlin Crying About France Seizing Villa From Putin’s Ex-Wife

The Kremlin is not pleased that French authorities have taken aim at Vladimir Putin’s ex-wife.

Quick Facts

• The French court’s decision to seize the $5.7-million villa belonging to Russian citizen Artur Ocheretny, formerly Putina, is causing controversy.
• Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov considers the seizure of the “Souzanna” villa in Anglet, near Biarritz, as “a priori illegal.”
• The villa is reportedly at the center of an investigation by a division of the Paris prosecutor’s office tackling organized crime.

A French court’s decision to seize the $5.7-million villa belonging to Russian citizen Artur Ocheretny, the new husband of Lyudmila Ocheretnaya (formerly Putina), is “a priori illegal,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Thursday.

Asked to comment on the move, Peskov stressed that the residence was “private property” and “any encroachment on private property is a violation of the law.”

The villa, now empty and featuring the phrase “Fuck Poutine” graffitied on the gate, is reportedly at the center of an investigation by a division of the Paris prosecutor’s office tackling organized crime.

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NASA Chief Warns China is Concealing Military Links to Space Projects

NASA’s chief, Bill Nelson, cautioned that China is engaging in secretive space activities with potential military implications. He emphasized that the US is in a “race” with Beijing to reach the moon in the 21st century.

Quick Facts

• NASA head Bill Nelson warned that China is conducting military activities under the guise of civilian space programs.
• China aims to land astronauts on the moon by 2030 and establish a lunar base within the next five years.
• The US is striving to land astronauts on the moon by September 2026 under the Artemis missions.

Nelson expressed concern over China’s lack of transparency, emphasizing that they may be disguising military activities as civilian space endeavors. He highlighted the importance of the $25.4 billion budget he presented to lawmakers, stressing the need for the US to assert its position in space exploration.

Furthermore, he reiterated the potential threat posed by China’s ambitions in space, referencing the possibility of them staking a claim on lunar territory and excluding other nations. Nelson drew parallels with China’s actions in the South China Sea, where its sovereignty claims have led to territorial disputes.

Regarding the timeline for lunar missions, Nelson emphasized the urgency for the US to accelerate its efforts to reach the moon before China. He underscored the value of collaborative international agreements, such as the Artemis Accords, which promote transparency and peaceful space exploration. Nelson also noted China’s exclusion from these accords and its plans to establish a lunar base.

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Black Prisoners Face Higher Rate of Botched Executions, Study Finds

**Black Prisoners** face a higher rate of botched executions, according to a new study released by an anti-death-penalty group. The report suggests that the lethal injections of Black people have been botched more than twice as often as those of white prisoners.

Quick Facts

• Clayton Lockett’s botched execution in Oklahoma in 2014 led to an overhaul of the state’s execution protocols and a temporary halt in carrying out the death penalty.
• Racial disparities in the U.S. judicial system’s administration of the death penalty have been well-documented, with a higher proportion of Black people on death rows compared to their share of the population.
• The report concludes that 37 out of 465 executions of Black people were botched, compared to 28 out of 780 of white people, making the botched rate for Black prisoners more than twice as likely as for white prisoners.

As Clayton Lockett lay on an execution table in Oklahoma in 2014 awaiting his death, medical officials struggled to gain access to a vein to administer a lethal injection. The execution was called off, but most of the drugs had already been injected, leading to Mr. Lockett’s death on the table about 20 minutes later.

The new report, released by Reprieve, a human rights group opposing the death penalty, adds to previous research on racial disparities in the U.S. judicial system. It found that the likelihood of a botched lethal injection is also higher for Black people on death row.

The report’s authors and other experts encourage further research to understand the reasons behind the racial disparity in botched executions, as well as the lack of transparency in capital punishment that hinders attempts to address the issues.

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Georgia beach town trying to curb large annual gathering of Black students

Thousands of Black college students are expected to attend an annual spring bash at Georgia’s largest public beach, which has sparked measures by local officials to control the event. The beach party known as Orange Crush, held on Tybee Island, has drawn criticism and concerns from residents and authorities due to overcrowding and public safety issues.

Quick Facts

• Tybee Island is preparing for the annual Orange Crush beach party, which has historically attracted large crowds of Black college students.
• Residents and officials have expressed concerns about public safety, overcrowding, and potential disturbances during the event.
• The crackdown on the event has sparked debate, with some critics suggesting racial bias in the measures taken by the authorities.

Tybee Island, east of Savannah, has faced challenges with the Orange Crush event, leading to increased police presence and road closures in an effort to manage the anticipated large crowds. Last year’s record attendance of over 100,000 people prompted concerns about public safety, leading to a call for stricter measures to control the event.

Some critics have accused local officials of overreacting and targeting Black visitors, raising questions about potential racial bias in the response to the event. While authorities defend the measures as necessary for public safety, the crackdown has sparked controversy and debate within the community.

The situation has also drawn attention to the historical context of the beach town and its treatment of visitors, with some residents and activists highlighting concerns about racial discrimination and the perceived targeting of Black attendees.

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Kohberger’s attorneys say cell phone data shows he wasn’t near murder location

Kohberger’s Legal Team Presents Evidence of Alibi Using Cell Phone Data

Kohberger is accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students in 2022. His attorneys plan to use cell phone tower data to demonstrate that he was not at the location of the murders, as per a new court filing.

Quick Facts

• Lawyers for Bryan Kohberger are using cell phone tower data to establish his alibi, claiming he was not at the location of the murders.
• Kohberger’s mobile device data indicates he was south of Pullman, Washington, and west of Moscow, Idaho, during the time of the murders.
• A hearing on the change of venue motion is scheduled for May 14, 2024.

Lawyers for Bryan Kohberger, the man accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students in 2022, plan to use cell phone tower data to show he was not at the location where the murders occurred, according to a new court filing.

Court documents providing an alibi for Kohberger stated he “was out driving in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022; as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars. He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho including Wawawai Park.”

The document said a cell site location information expert will testify that cell tower data shows “Kohberger’s mobile device was south of Pullman, Washington and west of Moscow, Idaho on November 13, 2022; that Bryan Kohberger’s mobile device did not travel east on the Moscow-Pullman Highway in the early morning hours of November 13th, and thus could not be the vehicle captured on video along the Moscow-Pullman highway near Floyd’s Cannabis shop.”

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BBC News Channel Presenter Martine Croxall Takes Legal Action After Being Off Air For Over A Year

EXCLUSIVE: BBC News channel presenter Martine Croxall has commenced legal action against the British broadcaster after being off air for over a year.

Quick Facts

• Martine Croxall has taken legal action against the BBC after being off air for over a year.
• She is taking the BBC to an employment tribunal, with a two-day hearing scheduled in London Central on May 1.
• Croxall was one of five senior female journalists who failed to land a Chief Presenter role after the BBC merged its international and domestic news channels last year.

The seasoned news anchor is taking the BBC to an employment tribunal, according to a listing for a two-day hearing at London Central on May 1. This legal action is set to be one of the highest-profile tribunals faced by the BBC since the corporation lost a landmark gender pay battle with Newswatch host Samira Ahmed in 2020.

Croxall was one of five senior female journalists who failed to land a Chief Presenter role when the BBC merged its international and domestic news channels last year. She, along with Karin Giannone, Geeta Guru-Murthy, Kasia Madera, and Annita McVeigh, challenged the BBC’s recruitment process as part of an internal complaints procedure, alleging that the BBC rigged the hiring process.

Despite a successful candidate saying they had a “tap on the shoulder” from managers, a senior BBC HR executive was not persuaded by their argument. Croxall has not appeared on the BBC News channel since March 2023 and sources said she has been in talks with the corporation over her future.

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School Board Cancels Gay Actor’s Anti-Bullying Talk Over His ‘Lifestyle’

A Pennsylvania school board canceled an anti-bullying speech by the actor Maulik Pancholy, who is gay, after board members raised concerns about his “lifestyle,” prompting outrage from the surrounding community.

Quick Facts

• The Cumberland Valley School District school board voted unanimously to cancel Mr. Pancholy’s speaking event next month at Mountain View Middle School in Mechanicsburg, a community of about 9,000 people roughly 100 miles west of Philadelphia.
• Mr. Pancholy played the obsequious assistant to Alec Baldwin’s character on the TV show “30 Rock” and voiced Baljeet in the cartoon “Phineas and Ferb.”
• The cancellation prompted a petition to reinstate the event that stated that the decision was made “solely because he is openly gay.”

The Cumberland Valley School District school board recently voted unanimously to cancel actor Maulik Pancholy’s anti-bullying speech at Mountain View Middle School in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The decision sparked outrage from the community after concerns about Pancholy’s “lifestyle” were raised by board members. The actor, who is gay, is known for his roles in “30 Rock” and “Phineas and Ferb,” and had planned to speak about his experience with bullying and his children’s book, “The Best At It,” featuring a gay Indian American boy named Rahul.

Board members expressed concerns about Pancholy’s activism and his children’s books, which address bullying faced by L.G.B.T.Q. characters. The cancellation led to a petition with over 1,000 signatures, claiming the decision was made “solely because he is openly gay.” The board’s decision has sparked controversy, with community members criticizing it as not representative of their values.

Amidst the controversy, the board members defended their decision by stating that they objected to Pancholy’s activism and saw it as a political agenda that could violate the district’s policy. However, supporters of Pancholy argue that his work focuses on social justice causes and empathy, not politics, and that the decision to cancel his speech was unjust.

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Stephen Colbert is set to host ‘The Late Show In Chicago’ during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) 2024. The CBS late-night talk show host will broadcast a full week of episodes from the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago from August 19 through August 22. Read more about Stephen Colbert hosting The Late Show in Chicago during DNC 2024 here.

Quick Facts

• Stephen Colbert to host The Late Show in Chicago during the week of the DNC 2024.
• The Auditorium Theatre in Chicago will be the venue for the special episodes.
• Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are the presumptive nominees for the 2024 Democratic National Convention.

Stephen Colbert has announced his plans to host The Late Show in Chicago during the Democratic National Convention in 2024. The CBS late-night talk show host will be broadcasting a full week of episodes from the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago, from August 19 through August 22. Colbert expressed his excitement about returning to Chicago, where he lived for 11 years and performed at the Second City. He also shared humorous anecdotes about his time in the city, highlighting its significance in his career.

The 2024 Democratic National Convention will be a pivotal event where the United States Democratic Party will select its nominees for the presidential and vice-presidential elections. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are expected to play a prominent role in the convention, with the United Center in Chicago serving as the venue for their appearances. The convention is scheduled to take place during the week of August 19.

Colbert’s decision to host The Late Show in Chicago during the DNC 2024 reflects his personal connection to the city and the significance of the convention in the political landscape. The special episodes from the Auditorium Theatre are anticipated to provide a unique perspective on the convention, offering a blend of entertainment and political insights to the audience.

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Family of Slain Mother in Las Vegas Law Firm Shooting Shares Ex’s Violent Past: ‘Lived in Constant Fear’

The family of the woman tragically killed in a shooting at a Las Vegas law firm has revealed new details about the incident, shedding light on the victim’s constant fear for her safety and that of her children. The family’s statement can be found here.

Quick Facts

• The victim, Ashley Prince, was killed alongside her husband during a child custody deposition at a Las Vegas law firm.
• The shooting was carried out by the victim’s ex-father-in-law, Joe Houston II, who later took his own life.
• The family of the victim is determined to secure full custody of their grandchildren to safeguard their future.

The tragic incident occurred during a child custody deposition at the Prince Law Firm, where Ashley Prince and her husband, Dennis Prince, were representing her. The victim’s parents, Paul and Julie Page, expressed that Ashley had been living in constant fear due to her ex-husband’s violent behavior, despite legal battles for protection.

During the deposition, Joe Houston II, the ex-father-in-law, fatally shot Ashley and Dennis before taking his own life. The Page family revealed that Ashley had endured relentless verbal and mental abuse from her former husband, Dylan Houston, leading to her constant fear for her life and that of her children.

The family disclosed that Ashley had been granted a restraining order against Dylan to protect herself, but their worst fears were realized when Joe Houston II, representing Dylan, committed the most egregious domestic violence by killing Ashley and Dennis. The Pages are now cooperating with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department to secure full custody of their grandchildren.

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London Marathon plea for peace amid threat of Palestine and Israel protests

Quick Facts

• The London Marathon urges unity on the streets of London on Sunday for over 50,000 runners.
• Event director Hugh Brasher stated mitigations are in place for potential disruptions.
• This year is expected to surpass the record for most finishers and charity fundraising.

The London Marathon have urged unity on the streets of London on Sunday when more than 50,000 people will run the London Marathon for charities that include both **Palestinians** and **Israelis** impacted by the conflict in the Middle East. Event director Hugh Brasher said that mitigations were in place for potential disruptions that could also include environmental protesters but, after Extinction Rebellion made a point last year of not targeting the 26.2 mile spectacle, there is hope that the event will again not be impacted.

“We are a force for good in society,” said Brasher, whose father Chris co-founded the event in 1981. “There are people running for Palestinians that have been affected. There are people that are running for Israelis that have been affected. There are so many people running for so many different causes. What we’ve always tried to do is bring people together.”

This year is expected to surpass both the 48,000 record for most finishers and last year’s £66.4 million charity fundraising record. “Coexistence and togetherness is what the London Marathon is all about,” said Brasher. “And we hope that that message will resonate with anyone who thinks it is a good thing to disrupt the race. I can’t really talk about the mitigations but there are numerous ones that we have.”

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UNRWA Head Warns of ‘Insidious’ Israeli Campaign to Dismantle Agency

The head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has issued a warning about Israel’s efforts to dismantle the agency amidst a humanitarian crisis in the bombarded and besieged Gaza Strip. Philippe Lazzarini, addressing the UN Security Council, emphasized the crucial nature of UNRWA’s work and appealed for protection. He highlighted the devastating consequences if Israel’s campaign is successful.

Quick Facts

• UNRWA head warns of Israeli campaign to dismantle agency amidst humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
• Israel accused of relentless bombing and merciless siege, leading to a man-made famine in Gaza.
• UNRWA faces pressure over allegations of staff involvement in attacks led by Palestinian group Hamas.

Addressing the UN Security Council, Lazzarini emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that Israel’s relentless bombing and merciless siege have led to a man-made famine in Gaza. He highlighted the denial of aid delivery by UNRWA, despite consecutive orders by the International Court of Justice to increase the flow of aid into Gaza. Lazzarini also called attention to the targeting of UNRWA premises and employees in Gaza, with a total of 178 UNRWA personnel killed since the start of the war.

The briefing took place amidst pressure on UNRWA over Israeli allegations of staff involvement in attacks led by Palestinian group Hamas. Lazzarini emphasized the lack of evidence provided by Israel to support these claims and highlighted the ongoing investigations into the matter. He also noted the reluctance of some countries, including the United States, to reinstate their funding for UNRWA during what he described as a “seismic change” in the Middle East.

During the Security Council meeting, Israel’s UN representative claimed that UNRWA, not Israel, is responsible for creating a sea of Palestinian refugees. Lazzarini countered this by emphasizing the role of UNRWA in delivering assistance at scale, particularly in the absence of a political solution to the displacement of Palestinians. He also highlighted the calls for the closure of UNRWA as an attempt to end the refugee status of millions of Palestinians.

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Germany arrests 2 for alleged Russian spy sabotage plot on U.S. military sites to undermine Ukraine aid

Germany has arrested two men suspected of spying for Russia and collecting information on potential attack targets, including U.S. military facilities, in an effort to undermine international military support for Ukraine. The arrests were made in Bayreuth, a city in the southern state of Bavaria, and the suspects are accused of working with a Russian secret service agent.

Quick Facts

• Two German-Russian nationals arrested in Germany on suspicion of spying for Russia and undermining international military support for Ukraine.
• Dieter S. is suspected to be a former fighter for pro-Kremlin forces in eastern Ukraine and is accused of making arrangements for an explosive or arson attack in Germany.
• Arrest warrants accuse both men of working for a foreign secret service and carrying out “activity for sabotage purposes” and for obtaining “security-threatening depictions of military installations.”

According to the German Federal Prosecutor’s office, the suspects, named as Dieter S. and Alexander J., were working with a Russian secret service agent to undermine international military support for Ukraine. Dieter S. is suspected to be a former fighter for pro-Kremlin forces in eastern Ukraine and is accused of making arrangements for an explosive or arson attack in Germany. The men were arrested in Bayreuth, a city in the southern state of Bavaria, by the Federal Criminal Police Office. Their homes and workplaces were searched by Bavarian state police. Some Ukrainian soldiers have been training at U.S. military installations in this part of Bavaria.

Arrest warrants dated April 9 accuse both men of working for a foreign secret service and carrying out “activity for sabotage purposes” and for obtaining “security-threatening depictions of military installations,” prosecutors said. The prosecutor’s statement said Dieter S. has been in touch with a “person who is connected to the Russian secret service” since Oct. 2023, with whom he discussed possible sabotage operations in Germany.

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**Squad** Member Advocates for Peace Amidst High Crime Rates in Hometown

Cori Bush called for “peace” and de-escalation in the Israel-Hamas war while her hometown, St. Louis, was recently ranked as the third “most dangerous” city in the United States.

Quick Facts

• Bush urged for peace amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict.
• St. Louis ranked as the third “most dangerous” city in the U.S.
• Norada reported high poverty rates and lack of access to quality education and healthcare as factors contributing to crime in St. Louis.

A report from real estate company Norada revealed that St. Louis, Rep. Bush’s hometown, was ranked as the third “most dangerous” city in the U.S. after analyzing FBI data. This ranking placed St. Louis behind only Detroit and Baltimore in terms of danger. The high rates of poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to essential resources were identified as contributing factors to the city’s crime problem according to Norada.

Representative Bush, an outspoken critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, emphasized the toll of violence overseas and stressed the importance of embracing peace amidst war. She implored for an end to the bloodshed and trauma caused by armed conflict, highlighting the need to abandon the nation’s propensity towards war and instead strive for peace. Her message resonates strongly, considering her hometown’s struggles and the urgent call to address the root causes of violence.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Rep. Bush’s office for comment.

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President Joe Biden visited Scranton, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday and called for an increase in taxes on the rich, aiming to make the tax code fair and allow regular American citizens to keep more money in their pockets.

Quick Facts

• President Biden calls for an increase in taxes on the rich to make the tax code fair and benefit regular American citizens.
• The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) brought significant changes to personal income taxes and estate taxes, with many provisions scheduled to expire by the end of 2025.
• A report by the Tax Foundation predicts the addition of 1.4 million jobs to the economy by 2025 as a result of the TCJA.

During his visit, Biden emphasized the competing visions for the economy, contrasting “Scranton values” with “Mar-a-Lago values,” raising questions of fundamental fairness at the heart of the campaign. The upcoming 2024 presidential election is expected to determine the fate of the tax cuts established by Trump, with many provisions in the TCJA set to expire by 2025.

The TCJA brought about significant changes in personal income taxes and estate taxes, with provisions for small businesses, including a 20 percent pass-through deduction and immediate expensing. The tax cuts for many small businesses led to an increase in wages and bonuses for employees. Wages increased by 4.9 percent in 2018 and 2019, with workers in a lower income bracket experiencing a 50 percent rise in their wages, according to a report from Way and Means Committee Chairman Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO).

While Biden has pledged not to increase taxes on those making less than $400,000, a Biden victory in the upcoming election would likely result in tax increases for middle-class Americans.

The article was originally published on Breitbart.

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Burkina Faso has expelled three French diplomats over alleged “subversive activities,” ordering them to leave the country within 48 hours, as reported by Reuters and Agence France-Presse (AFP) news agencies.

Quick Facts

• Burkina Faso expels three French diplomats over “subversive activities.”
• Details of the allegations against the diplomats were not provided by the government.
• Since the military coup in September 2022, Burkina Faso has strained its ties with France.

Burkina Faso’s government did not disclose specific details about the accusations against the diplomats, identified as Gwenaelle Habouzit, Herve Fournier, and Guillaume Reisacher. The expulsion reportedly stemmed from their meetings with civil society leaders, according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation cited by Reuters.

France’s foreign ministry has not yet responded to the report, as Burkina Faso’s military government, which took power in a 2022 coup, continues to distance itself from its former colonial power. This distancing includes the expulsion of French troops, suspension of some French media, and repeated accusations of espionage against French officials.

In December 2023, four French officials with diplomatic passports were arrested in Ouagadougou and charged with spying. A year earlier, two French nationals working for a Burkina Faso company were also expelled over espionage allegations. As relations with France deteriorate, Burkina Faso has sought security assistance from Russia, Mali, and Niger in its efforts to combat armed groups associated with al-Qaeda and ISIS.

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German Far-Right Leader Goes on Trial for Nazi Slogans

Summary

One of Germany’s most prominent far-right leaders, Björn Höcke, is facing trial for using banned Nazi slogans at political rallies. Using National Socialist slogans and symbols is a punishable crime in Germany, and Mr. Höcke, who heads the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the state of Thuringia, is under surveillance for right-wing extremism.

Quick Facts

• Mr. Höcke is facing trial for using the slogan “Everything for Germany” at a speech in the eastern state of Saxony, which was the slogan of the National Socialist paramilitary group.
• If found guilty, he could face a short prison term or a fine, and the court could also decide to temporarily revoke his right to vote and run in elections.
• The trial is expected to draw large crowds of protesters both for and against the AfD.

One of Germany’s most prominent far-right leaders, Björn Höcke, stands trial on Thursday, facing charges of using banned Nazi slogans at political rallies. Using National Socialist slogans and symbols is a punishable crime in Germany, which, because of the legacy of Hitler’s rise to power, has a far more restrictive approach to free speech compared to democracies like the United States.

Mr. Höcke heads the far-right Alternative for Germany, known by its German abbreviation, AfD, in the state of Thuringia. Both he and the state branch he leads have been classified by domestic intelligence as right-wing extremist and are under surveillance.

He is facing trial for using the slogan “Everything for Germany” at a speech in the eastern state of Saxony, where he is being put on trial. It was the slogan of the National Socialist paramilitary group, or Storm Troopers, and was engraved on their knives.

Mr. Höcke has said he did not know the phrase was a Nazi slogan. But critics have insisted that argument is not credible, given he was a history teacher before he became a politician. And they note that AfD politicians in two other states have already been stopped by authorities in past years for using the slogan.

The trial will take place in the city of Halle, at the state’s highest court and is expected to last until May 14. If found guilty, Mr. Höcke could face a short prison term or a fine. The court could also decide to temporarily revoke his right to vote and run in elections. Such a decision would be a major blow during a pivotal election year in Germany, in which Mr. Höcke and the AfD are expected to gain the largest share of votes.

In all three eastern German states holding elections later this year, the AfD is the most popular party. And nationwide, it is polling better than any of the three governing parties, in spite of nationwide mass protests that erupted after an investigative report revealed some AfD members had attended a secretive conference to discuss deporting immigrants.

The AfD’s latest resurgence started last spring, when it benefited from anxieties over rising migration and frustration with the government’s poor handling of the country’s stagnating economy. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s governing coalition looked weak and divided throughout.

Although it remains unlikely that the AfD would be able to take power in one of the three states, Mr. Höcke has become one of the most influential members of his party.

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Top New York City mayor Adams aide slapped with second sexual harassment lawsuit: report

Top New York City mayor Adams aide slapped with second sexual harassment lawsuit: report

A top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing a second lawsuit alleging discrimination, sexual harassment, and retaliation. The lawsuit was filed by retired NYPD sergeant Michael Ferrari, accusing Timothy Pearson, a former NYPD inspector, of creating a hostile work environment.

Quick Facts

• Retired NYPD sergeant Michael Ferrari filed a lawsuit against Timothy Pearson, alleging discrimination, sexual harassment, and retaliation.
• Ferrari claims he witnessed or was told of Pearson sexually harassing female colleagues in the Mayor’s Office of Municipal Services Assessment.
• Pearson’s alleged actions led to a demotion for Ferrari and prompted him to retire from his 16-year career at the NYPD.

A lawsuit filed in the New York Supreme Court in Manhattan on Wednesday alleges that Pearson created a hostile work environment by sexually harassing female colleagues, including retired NYPD Sgt. Roxanne Ludemann. Although Ferrari did not claim to be the subject of unwanted advances, he was assigned to monitor Pearson’s behavior around women in the office.

Following a confrontation about the sexual harassment allegations, Ferrari was demoted back to patrol, resulting in significant financial losses and ultimately leading to his retirement from the NYPD. The lawsuit also alleges that Pearson made inappropriate comments regarding a migrant shelter project, leading to further discontent among colleagues.

According to the lawsuit, Pearson’s actions have caused significant disruption and distress within the NYPD, prompting legal action from multiple individuals. The mayor’s office and the NYPD have been approached for comment on the lawsuit.

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Elections Have Gotten More Accessible for Disabled Voters, but Gaps Remain

In a recent development related to the accessibility of elections for disabled voters, a new report has shed light on the progress made and the challenges that still persist. The report, conducted by researchers from Rutgers University and San Diego State University, analyzed the impact of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) and found that while there have been improvements, significant gaps remain in the voting process for disabled Americans.

Quick Facts

• In 2020, disabled voters still had an 11-point lower turnout compared to non-disabled voters.
• While there has been progress, about 14% of disabled people reported having trouble voting in 2022, up from approximately 11% in 2020.
• Turnout among people with disabilities increased from 2018 to 2022, particularly in states that made it easier to vote by mail during the pandemic.

In 2018, Kenia Flores, who is blind, faced challenges voting by mail in North Carolina due to her disability. Similarly, Dessa Cosma, who uses a wheelchair, encountered difficulties at her precinct in Michigan. These experiences reflect the ongoing barriers that disabled voters encounter in the electoral process.

Despite efforts to improve accessibility, the report highlighted that disabled Americans continue to vote at lower rates than their non-disabled counterparts. While the gap has narrowed over the years, significant disparities persist, especially in terms of turnout and reported difficulties in voting.

Recent backsliding in the data, including an increase in reported voting difficulties among disabled people, has raised concerns. Factors contributing to this trend could include the revocation of pandemic policies that facilitated mail-in voting and the impact of long Covid on individuals’ disabilities.

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